INTERDISCIPLINARY MANAGEMENT AND THERAPEUTIC METHODS IN ONCOGERIATRIC CARE: CHALLENGES AND IMPROVEMENTS IN THE UNIFIED HEALTH SYSTEM (SUS)

Abstract

Population aging has led to significant changes in the Brazilian epidemiological profile, particularly the increased incidence of chronic noncommunicable diseases, including cancer, especially among older adults. In this context, oncogeriatric care poses complex challenges to the Unified Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde – SUS), requiring the articulation of efficient management, interdisciplinary practices, and therapeutic methods adapted to the specificities of aging. This study aimed to analyze interdisciplinary management and therapeutic methods in oncogeriatric care within the SUS, identifying challenges and possibilities for improving the quality of care provided to older adults with cancer. This is a qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory study, developed through a bibliographic and documentary review. National scientific publications and normative documents addressing healthcare for older adults, cancer care policy, multiprofessional teamwork, organization of healthcare networks, and clinical protocols and therapeutic guidelines in oncology were analyzed. The analysis of the material allowed the organization of results into thematic axes related to interdisciplinary management, therapeutic methods, and service organization within the SUS. The results showed that, although the SUS has a consistent normative framework for oncogeriatric care, weaknesses persist in the implementation of public policies, particularly regarding the integration of healthcare networks, the consolidation of interdisciplinary work, and the adaptation of therapeutic methods to the specificities of the older population. It was observed that the integrated performance of multiprofessional teams contributes to the development of individualized therapeutic projects and to the promotion of quality of life; however, it still faces structural, organizational, and professional training limitations. It is concluded that strengthening interdisciplinary management, systematically incorporating geriatric assessment, improving therapeutic methods, and strategically using health information are essential to enhancing oncogeriatric care within the SUS, fostering more integrated, humanized, and older adult-centered practices.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2026.002-003